This production of Vincenzo Bellini's masterpiece Norma is extraordinary in many aspects: Staged by Italian director and fi lmmaker Roberto Andó at the Teatro Regio in Parma, it gathered international stars like American soprano June Anderson as Norma, whose lyric voice shines particularly brightly against the softer sound texture of historic instruments, and rising star Daniela Barcellona as well as Russian bass lldar Abdrazakov. The ensemble's velvety tone and transparent playing enabled a constant musical exchange between orchestra and singers, which complemented the exquisite voices perfectly. Fabio Biondi's transparent conducting and the authentic performance practice of Europa Galante illuminated the musical structure of Bellini's opera and provided a new perspective on early 19th century opera.